Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam was founded in 1970 on land leased (and later given) to it by the adjacent Monastery of Latroun. In 1977 the first family came to reside here. By 2006, about 52 families are settled in the village. The members of Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam are demonstrating the possibility of coexistence between Jews and Palestinians by developing a community based on mutual acceptance, respect and cooperation.

Democratically governed and owned by its members, the community is not affiliated with any political party or movement. Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam gives practical expression to its vision through its various branches.

NSWAS is managed by an annually elected steering committee ("secretariat") chaired by a "secretary general" - a paid position equivalent to mayor. Matters of policy, acceptance of new members, annual budget, etc, are made in assemblies of all the members.

Wahat al-Salam - Neve Shalom was founded by the dominican brother Bruno Hussar (1911 - 1996), with the intention of creating a place where the people of this land would live together despite national and religious differences, and who would conduct educational work for peace.

The land of NSWAS and public buildings are owned by the village. Public works projects are carried where possible with state support. Items like street lighting and sewer system hook-ups often need to be funded by members. Friends, donors and foundations help to fund construction of public buildings and large infrastructure expenses.

The majority of NSWAS’ 100+ adult residents understandably prefer to keep their personal lives to themselves. However, this section contains some articles and interviews featuring past and present members and links to personal sites (see right column).